Pioneering physician at Auburn hospital recalled as ‘an icon’

Auburn Community Hospital recognized a man this week who was an instrumental pioneer in the hospital's development.

Dr. Donald W. Delahanty, who died last month, was recalled in a proclamation that was read at the hospital's annual Christmas dinner.

As the first orthopedic specialist in the area, Delahanty effectively brought orthopedics to Auburn when he arrived in 1956, said Dr. Rick Nangle, a retired physician who worked with Delahanty. Before Delahanty began working at the hospital, all orthopedic care was done by general surgeons.